Jackson announces retirement from state Senate

State Sen. Sampson Jackson II of Preston has announced his retirement from state government.

Jackson, a Democrat, has represented the 32nd District, which includes Kemper County and parts of Lauderdale, Noxubee and Winston counties, since 1992. He has been elected eight times.

Jackson, 68, said the time was right.

“I have 48 ½ years in the PERS retirement,” Jackson said. “I feel like it’s about time to come out of there.”

Along with his 29 ½ years in the Legislature, Jackson previously worked for the state Highway Department. He is also a businessman and a cattle farmer.

Jackson is the current chair of the Senate Forestry committee and has chaired the Senate Correction committee. He also serves as member on the following committees: Agriculture, Appropriations, Corrections, Energy, Highways and Transportation, Interstate and Federal Cooperation, Judiciary, Division B, and Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.

When asked what piece of legislation he was most proud of, Jackson said it involved helping to get water services to people near the Kipling area.

Jackson was also instrumental in shepherding $750,000 through the Legislature last year for the Kemper County Gas District.

Jackson sent his letter of resignation to Gov. Tate Reeves last week, Reeves will set the dates for an election to replace him. Jackson said he plans to spend more time with his cattle farm and working in the community. Sen. Jackson is a member of C Phi C Social Fellowship Club, NAACP, Kemper County Political Black Caucus, Farm Bureau and the Mississippi Cattlemen's Association. He is also a Mason.

Jackson said his son, Keith Jackson, will be a candidate to replace him.